By-election called for Qld seat of Stafford after death of independent MP Jimmy Sullivan, fuel policy emerges as early battleground

A by-election has been called for Brisbane’s northern electorate of Stafford following the sudden death of independent MP Jimmy Sullivan, setting the stage for a politically charged contest just weeks before the state budget. The 44-year-old was found dead at his home earlier this month, with police ruling the circumstances as non-suspicious. His death has left the seat vacant and triggered a May 16 poll that is already being framed as a test of the government’s direction. Mr Sullivan had been sitting on the crossbench after being expelled from Labor’s caucus last year, amid scrutiny over personal matters. The LNP government had also urged him to step down after raising allegations in parliament about a domestic incident. Elected in 2020 and returned again in 2024, Mr Sullivan held a seat long dominated by Labor, which has won Stafford in nine of the past 10 elections. The electorate takes in Brisbane’s northern suburbs including Stafford, Chermside and Kedron. Premier David Crisafulli confirmed that Governor Jeanette Young had issued the writs on Friday morning, formally launching the by-election campaign. He said filling the vacancy quickly was critical with the June state budget looming. “We live in incredibly uncertain times. It is vital that this community has representation,” Mr Crisafulli said. “Regardless of what side of the aisle they sit, that is an important part of our democracy.” Opposition Leader Steven Miles said the vote would give residents the chance to pass judgment on the government. “This by-election will be a referendum on a government that has failed to deliver for Queenslanders, failed to do anything for Queenslanders who are hurting now more than ever,” Mr Miles said. Neither major party has confirmed a candidate. Speaking from a Brisbane service station, Mr Crisafulli cast the by-election as a chance for voters to endorse the government’s energy strategy. “It is an opportunity for the people of Stafford to send a message that they do back our plan for this, for us to control our own destiny, for us to ensure that we have our own fuel supply,” Mr Crisafulli said. “And also, to send a message to those like Labor and the Greens, who are finding every reason to stand in the way.” Mr Miles delivered a sharp rebuttal outside the Lytton oil refinery, accusing the government of failing to ease cost-of-living pressures. “Queenslanders are sitting around the dinner table talking about how to make ends meet, talking about how they will be able to afford to fill their car with petrol,” Mr Miles said. “David Crisafulli has so far refused to do anything real to assist Queenslanders through this unprecedented affordability crisis. “He has proven to be a premier who is all photo opportunity and no follow-through.”